The hype: After eight years, Kilo Kitchen bids goodbye to its iconic Kallang premises, for a tropical holiday-inspired new start in the centre of Duxton. The move brings the restaurant closer to its sister property Kilo Lounge; but fancy exterior aside, the tried-and-true style of fresh coastal food remains, thankfully.
The vibe: 97 Duxton Road has an unfortunate history of hosting rapidly shuttered dining concepts, but Kilo’s refreshing beach vibe decor just might be the key to breaking the curse. There’s still the exposed cement and raw industrial aesthetic of the original Kallang, now enlivened by wicker and wood finishings in the spacious compound. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring lots of light into the space, so you won’t miss the view of the Kallang Basin (as much).
The food: Returning to the Kilo kitchen is executive chef Manel Velero, who first joined the group in 2014 before traversing the world for a culinary sabbatical. Now that he’s back (and replaced the former chefs), expect new wood-fired creations rounding out the reinterpreted Kilo menu.
The refreshed menu sees beloved classics presented differently with tweaks in preparation, but still retain that distinct (Mediterranean) Kilo essence. If you’ve been craving their tartare or ceviche, find it improved in the Wasabi Tuna Tartare ($22), which comes with a light dusting of wasabi over a cracker. Also good is the Beef Tongue Tacos (two for $18), this time swapping out its former hard shell for a soft one, perfectly enveloping the burst of spicy, sour and tangy.
Upholding its communal dining aspect, the restaurant is still best appreciated through sharing the small and large plates. Definitely grab the Pan ($7)—grilled bread of the day with sinfully aromatic confit garlic dip—and the Crab Croquettes (two for $8) that come with basil vinaigrette; veg lovers will appreciate the Grilled Avocado ($10) slathered with ponzu, cream and crispy buckwheat puffs. Finish off with a Grilled Whole Rainbow Trout ($46) charcoal-grilled to perfection for a satisfying meal.
If you’ve still got room, there are only two desserts to choose from—the Chocolate Terrine ($14), a brownie-like treat with a smoked salted caramel cracker; and the Coconut Tembleque ($14) if you’re after something light and refreshing. Sometimes two choices is really all you need.
The drinks: You can’t miss the bar right smack in the middle of the room, all Turkish marble and brass and beckoning you closer for a drink. Kilo’s long list of signature cocktails takes you on a boozy trip around the world—with sours, chocolate tipples, gins and negronis—but we’ll always come back to the refreshing seven-day, house-infused Kilo’s Sangria ($19). Otherwise, there’s hot sakes, craft spirits, beers, and over 30 wines sourced from South Africa and beyond.
Why you’ll be back: We love a good makeover, and Kilo Kitchen turns an unnecessary inconvenience into a laudable remodel established brands can take example from. And since it’s so centrally located now, no more excuses to not go back more often.
